LOCAL Lib Dems have welcomed a u-turn by Warrington Borough Council to support a new outdoor gym at Walton Hall and Gardens.
It follows a plea from opposition Lid Dem Cllr Sharon Harris to reconsider a decision not to support proposals for anew outdoor gym at Walton Gardens, financed by Warrington Rotary and a £20,000 National Lottery grant.
The project has been led by Warrington Rotary, working alongside local partners and volunteers. Together they have secured almost £24,000 in funding, including the National Lottery grant, to provide exercise equipment that can be used by people of all ages and abilities.
The equipment would help residents improve their health, stay active and enjoy outdoor exercise in a safe and accessible environment. The project had been put at risk because the Council had refused to take on the annual inspection and maintenance costs of £332.91 plus VAT.
But after being contacted by Warrington Worldwide, the council issued a statement from cabinet member for climate change, sustainability and the environment Cllr. Una Gillham, responded: “We’re very grateful for the Rotary Club’s efforts in securing funding for a new outdoor gym at Walton Hall and Gardens. The ongoing work of our voluntary and community organisations in supporting the health and well-being of our local communities is critical.
“As a council, we’re committed to working with our partners to provide collective benefit to our residents. We will therefore work closely with the Rotary Club and partners to identify a suitable location for the gym, while also working to collectively agree how the gym can be maintained and looked after once installed. We will be working as quickly as possible to install what will be a welcome and valued new facility.”
A spokesperson for Warrington Lib Dems said: “We are delighted to hear that the Labour administration has made a U-turn on their initial decision and decided to back the project following pressure from the Liberal Democrat group. The Liberal Democrats were approached by Warrington Rotary club to challenge the Council on their initial decision, which we are delighted they have U-turned on following the Liberal Democrats’ questioning of it.”
